Transition Words

Connect your ideas smoothly with these essential transition words and phrases.

Addition

To add information or emphasize a point

FurthermoreMoreoverAdditionallyAlsoIn additionBesidesAs well asNot only... but also

Contrast

To show differences or opposing ideas

HoweverNeverthelessNonethelessOn the other handConverselyIn contrastAlthoughDespite

Cause and Effect

To show relationships between actions and results

ThereforeConsequentlyAs a resultThusHenceBecause of thisFor this reasonAccordingly

Time and Sequence

To show order or passage of time

FirstSecondFinallySubsequentlyMeanwhilePreviouslyBeforeAfterEventually

Example

To provide illustrations or evidence

For exampleFor instanceSuch asSpecificallyTo illustrateNamelyIn particular

Conclusion

To summarize or conclude

In conclusionTo summarizeIn summaryOverallIn briefTo concludeUltimately

Using Transition Words Effectively

Transition words and phrases help guide readers through your writing by showing the relationships between ideas, sentences, and paragraphs.

Tips for Using Transitions:

  • Use transitions to connect related ideas and show logical relationships
  • Vary your transitions to avoid repetition and maintain reader interest
  • Place transitions at the beginning of sentences or between clauses
  • Don't overuse transitions - use them when they add clarity
  • Match the transition to the relationship you're showing (cause/effect, contrast, etc.)